"The Medal of Honor was first awarded during the Civil War. Of the millions of Americans who have served in uniform since, only 3,429 have received America's highest award. Today only 164 recipients are living; one of whom is Colonel Wesley L. Fox (USMC Ret) who currently serves as Deputy Commandant at Virginia Tech. The Commandant of Cadets between 1884 and 1887 was Lieutenant John C. Gresham. Four years after leaving Virginia Tech his valor in action during the Indian Wars was recognized with the Medal of Honor. Two great Americans who were not recipienst themselves perhaps best reflect the honor associated with the medal. President Harry S. Truman once said of the award, "I'd rather have this than be President." General George S. Patton told a recipient, "I would give my immortal soul for that medal.""